China Launches Pioneering Center for Humanoid Robot Training

China has launched its first national center for training humanoid robots, known as the “National and Local Joint Innovation Center for Humanoid Robots.”

Located in the Zhangjiang area of Shanghai, the center spans over 5,000 square meters and aims to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence and advanced robotics technologies.

The center is working on building a massive motion database for robots by leveraging human interaction in industrial, service, and medical environments. Currently, more than 100 robots from 12 different companies are undergoing intensive training programs to develop basic skills such as grasping, transporting, folding, and connecting—laying the groundwork for executing more complex tasks in the future.

The training process relies on human instructors who perform precise and repetitive movements in front of the robots. These robots observe and record the variations using advanced sensors. This process generates between 20,000 and 30,000 data entries daily, with plans to increase this number to 50,000 per day—enabling the training of more advanced AI models.

The project aims to overcome challenges in the robotics industry, such as differences in hardware structures, software systems, and working environments. It also seeks to unify and share data among companies to accelerate progress, in addition to developing a foundational AI model known as the “Super Brain,” capable of guiding robots from various brands to adapt to diverse scenarios.